Interesting Times with Ross Douthat

Oren Cass, founder and chief economist of American Compass, engages in a thought-provoking discussion on America's trade strategy. He debates whether the economic pain from Trump’s tariffs is justifiable for long-term resilience. Cass highlights the struggles faced by working families and the critical importance of domestic manufacturing jobs. The conversation delves into globalization's impact, the role of tariffs in national security, and the need for a strategic approach to balance industrial policy and trade.

This podcast dives into the complexities of our rapidly changing world. It tackles the implications of the Trump presidency and the COVID-19 pandemic on our societal fabric. Listeners will explore the future of democracy as American influence shifts. The conversation also ventures into how culture—movies and books—will evolve in an era dominated by digital technology and AI. Each discussion promises thought-provoking insights into our current and future realities.

Marc Andreessen, co-founder of venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and Netscape, reflects on his shift from Democrat to Trump supporter. He discusses how Silicon Valley's political allegiance has changed, particularly leading up to the 2016 election. The conversation dives into the tech sector's relationship with increasing regulatory pressures and the emergence of a politically engaged tech faction in response to the Trump and Biden administrations. Andreessen also explores innovative initiatives aimed at improving government efficiency and the internal conflicts within the Republican coalition.

In this engaging conversation, Steve Bannon, former chief strategist for Donald Trump's first term and a key figure in the MAGA movement, addresses the evolving landscape of populism. He delves into the ideological rifts within the Trump administration and critiques Silicon Valley's monopolistic practices, coining the term 'techno feudalism.' Bannon also shares insights on the impact of transhumanism on conservatism and discusses the tension between populist rhetoric and practical policy during Trump's presidency.